Catechism for Young Children · Question 84 of 145
What is the third commandment?
A.The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
What does this answer mean?
The third commandment is, 'Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.' God attaches a warning: he will not hold guiltless anyone who misuses his name. Children can learn early that God's name is holy and not a word for jokes or anger.
What can we ask our children?
- What is the third commandment?
- What does 'in vain' mean?
- Why is God's name special?
Can I print this question?
Yes. Every printable here is free for home, church and co-op use. Press Print on any of these pages for a clean sheet.
- Memory card for question 84 (fold-over card, question on the front)
- Copywork page for question 84 (trace, then copy)
- Memory cards for questions 81 to 90
- Copywork for questions 81 to 90
- All Catechism for Young Children printables
Text: Catechism for Young Children: Being an Introduction to the Shorter Catechism, Presbyterian Board of Publication (copyright entered 1840). Public domain (1840).
Checked against a second edition on November 15, 2026. Explanation and questions by Household Theology Press. Last updated November 15, 2026.